Because our mission statement discusses who we are, this statement seeks to set

forth general principles that serve as a reminder of our responsibilities as members

of the teaching profession and this organization.

ACTAA Statement on Professional Ethics

This statement will define ethical practices for our committed professionals in an effort to aid us in pursuing our own excellence.

Ethical behavior is often defined as "right" or "good" behavior as measured against commonlyaccepted rules of conduct of a society or profession. The ethical person is often described as onewho is fair, honest, straightforward, trustworthy, objective, moral and unprejudiced. Theconsistent exercise of integrity is the cornerstone of ethical behavior.

Principles of Conduct

As Members of ACTAA we should:

1. Model ethically responsible behavior for colleagues and students and expect ethical behavior from others at all times.

2. Have obligations that derive from common membership in the community of scholars. Avoid knowingly making false or malicious statements about colleagues.

5. Carefully represent the views of those with whom we are in disagreement.

6. Exercise care that expressions of personal offense at the differing opinions, ideas and actions of others not be used in front of students or colleagues.

7. Avoid forcing personal values, beliefs, and behaviors on others.

8. Be guided by a deep conviction of the worth and dignity of the advancement of knowledge and recognize the special responsibility placed on us.

9. Nurture the growth of communication students and their teachers.

10. Recognize that unprofessional and unlawful behavior is unacceptable.

At ACTAA Events

As members of ACTAA, your actions reflect on our association, our events, yourself, your team, your school and your colleagues.

We ask that you act appropriately and encourage your students to do the same.

Avoid doing or saying things that would reflect negatively on ACTAA or your team. If you have any doubts, ask.

We ask that you not speak negatively about other schools, judges, coaches, team members, etc. Negative comments like, "He slimes in rebuttals" and "She's a lousy judge," reflect negatively on ACTAA and damage the kind of community we wish to reflect to all students, colleagues and our state.

In light of our mission statement, statement on professional ethics and principles of

conduct, and because our organization functions in an educative and consultative capacity, weshould not assume the role of adjudicator.